Meet the Team at CFP: Mike Collette
Mike and his girlfriend Erin Lindsey
Who are you?
Mike Collette, Co-Owner and Head Coach at CrossFit Prototype, 26 years old (27 on May 4th; hint hint : ) ), not married but have an awesome girlfriend, no kids, no pets but over 250 people responsible for ; ) I am a super goofball, very sarcastic and like to joke around. I can be very serious and then very mellow and easy going in a blink of an eye, it all depends on the situation. I live in Westborough MA with my younger brother Jon who is a Coach at CFP as well and the head of our Kids program at CFP.
Where are you from?
I was born in Providence RI and lived in Attleboro MA from the time I was born until I moved after graduating College in 2010.
Why did you get into CrossFit/How did you get into CrossFit?
I heard about CrossFit in College, around 2009, actually CrossFit Football, did some research but didn’t think much of it. Upon graduation and landing my first full time Personal Training job, my GM at the time introduced me to a “CrossFit type” WOD which him our AGM and myself did and I instantly got hooked, much like many people do. From there it was a lot of research (YouTube and the internet) to learn everything I can about it. I stumbled upon Chris Spealler and thought he was the man and from there I have been hooked ever since!
How did CFP start?
CFP started with a vision and a dream of having a place where we could do what we wanted with minimal restraint. A place where we could train our clients and create a community like no other. The journey started in 2012 when Michael Scott (my business partner and I) were driving home from one of our BJJ training sessions, I mentioned to Michael “Hey, let’s open a CrossFit/MMA facility where not only I can continue to train others but where you can live your dream of an Elite Marital Arts Facility.” The passion was felt on both sides and they both knew the impact something like this could have! With little convincing from me and a few YouTube video’s about CrossFit later, Michael got on the phone and called Brian Zancewicz and told him we wanted to open this facility and for him to be a part of it. Immediately he was on board. From there the plans to make an Excellence driven facility were put in place and the rest is history.
What are your goals with CrossFit?
I am a very competitive person (like many in the CF world) but I am also realistic. My goal is to be able to do everything I want to do with technical efficiency and to be competitive with others at a low level (not at CF Regional or Games Level). I know I will continue to get better and stronger but in doing so, mitigate injury risk and above all have fun. Specifically, having a 500lb squat, 600lb Deadlift, 315lb Clean and Jerk and 250lb Snatch would be cool, but we will see what happens (450lb Squat and 510lb DL currently, 295lb Clean and Jerk and 225lb Snatch currently). While strength is a focus as always (and the most fun for me), I love mastering new skills and tricks, so in the future I would like to learn how to do a standing tuck and back uprise on the rings!
What do you enjoy most about being part of CFP?
The team and the people. I love everyone in here, they are like family. The team we have at CFP works very hard to help others and better themselves everyday which I appreciate more than anything. A group of people that are constantly working together towards a purpose in which we all share is something very special. I can’t give the team we have at CFP enough credit, they are the best.
Whats your favorite and least favorite exercise to do?
Favorite or best at? I like clean variations and/or anything that has to do with a barbell from the ground. My least favorite has got to be running but it is always the WODs with running in them that I have to do, you have to tackle the weaknesses! Also, Handstand push ups, god I hate those especially in 15.4!!
What is your favorite benchmark workout?
Easy. Fran. I got you Fran!!!!
Tell us something about yourself that would surprise people?
I have a soft spot for babies and puppies. I’m a total softy even through the rough and tough exterior of being a “CrossFitter” or whatever that means : ) That’s one thing but also 80% of my vocabulary is mainly movie quotes that people don’t understand, but when people laugh and get it, it makes my day!
Mike and Nate on Halloween (Coach Nate)
If there was a movie made about you, what actor/actress would play you and why?
Fantastic question. I would have to say Tom Hardy since he is super badass, has a cool accent and has been in a lot of awesome movies. I would want a guy that has a great track record to play me for sure.
What do you you like to do outside of CFP/What are your hobbies?
I love eating. I don’t hate cooking, I just dislike it so I do enjoy eating out at quality restaurants. I love spending time with my girlfriend Erin when she is around. Lounging and watching a good show or movie is definitely a must do for me. When its nice out, I love being outside. Going to the Cape is sweet too which I enjoy with Erin as much as possible! Also, as of late, growing facial hair has been a hobby. I make sure to let Erin know how many compliments I get on it everyday!!
What is your favorite cheat meal?
Fish and Chips/Chocolate peanut butter ice cream. Tie between those two. Not combined, that would be gross.
Name one person who is the biggest influence in your life
I can’t just name 1 so I will give you 3 and categorize them:
1.) Business- Michael Scott
2.) Fitness- Eric Cressey
3.) Personal- Erin Burton (she keeps me on my toes)
If you were to give one piece of advice to someone new who was trying CrossFit, what would it be?
Enjoy the process. Give it 3 months for a lot of the things in CrossFit to sink in, there is a lot to it and you will not learn it all in a matter of days, hell we are all still learning! Fitness is a journey. Embrace the community and CFP will become your 2nd home, I guarantee it!
Coach Mike